From Hobart: 5-Day Tasmania West & East Coast Tour

Traveling Tasmania in just five days might sound ambitious, but with a well-organized small group tour, it’s entirely doable—and wildly rewarding. This tour, offered by Under Down Under Tours, promises a journey through the island’s most iconic sights, combining stunning landscapes, native wildlife, and Indigenous culture. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the high-rated reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What draws us in? First, the expert guides who, from reviews, are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make every stop memorable. Second, the diverse scenery—from mountain peaks to pristine beaches—showcasing Tasmania’s contrasting landscapes. Lastly, the balance of activity and relaxation—short walks, scenic drives, and cultural insights—ensures a fulfilling experience without feeling rushed.

A potential consideration is that, due to the expansive itinerary, there’s quite a bit of time spent on the bus, which might be tiring for some. However, the stops are frequent enough to keep things fresh. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy active travel, scenic vistas, and learning about local culture without the hassle of driving themselves.

If your goal is to see as much of Tasmania as possible in a short time with knowledgeable guides and a good value, this tour is a strong candidate. It’s particularly perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager to explore Tasmania’s highlights with ease.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering Tasmania’s top sights in five days.
Guides praised for their professionalism, humor, and knowledge, making the journey engaging.
A mix of national parks, beaches, and cultural sites provides a well-rounded experience.
Long travel days are balanced with short walks and scenic stops, ideal for active travelers.
Accommodation options vary between hostels and motels, catering to different preferences.
Wildlife sightings and stunning landscapes are highlights, especially at Wineglass Bay and Cradle Mountain.

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The Itinerary: What You Can Expect Day by Day

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Day 1: Hobart to Strahan – Touching Tasmania’s Waterfalls and Forests

Starting early at 7:30 AM, the journey from Hobart takes you across the island through the Derwent Valley. The first notable stop is at Russell Falls, a classic Tasmanian waterfall that’s often described as postcard-perfect. The walk there is short, flat, and suitable even for casual walkers—”a short and beautiful walk to Tasmania’s favourite waterfall,” as one reviewer put it.

Next, the tour visits Mount Field National Park’s Tall Trees, where you’ll experience some of the tallest trees in the world—an impressive reminder of Tasmania’s ancient forests. Then, on to Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, and the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. These stops highlight Tasmania’s untouched wilderness and give a real sense of the rugged beauty that characterizes much of the island.

The day ends in Strahan, a small but charming fishing village that acts as a gateway to the West Coast. The overnight stay means you can soak in the relaxed vibe and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Wild West Coast – Rainforests, Dunes, and Optional Cruises

The second day dives into the wilder side of Tasmania. The Henty Dunes—shifting sands that stretch along the coast—offer a surreal landscape, great for photos and short walks. From the reviews, many guests enjoyed exploring these dunes firsthand, feeling like they’d wandered onto a different planet.

The highlight for some is the guided walk in ancient temperate rainforests, where towering trees and lush greenery create a mystical atmosphere. For those wanting a special experience, the Gordon River Cruise is available at an extra cost, offering a tranquil boat ride through the rainforest’s deeper reaches. Reviewers mention this cruise as a “world-famous” activity that adds a peaceful, scenic element to the trip.

Staying overnight in Strahan makes it easy to relax after a day of exploration, with options to revisit favorite spots or simply enjoy the local food scene.

Day 3: Cradle Mountain – Iconic Wilderness and Mountain Views

Cradle Mountain-Lake St Claire National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably the tour’s crown jewel. At around 950 meters high, the mountain offers breathtaking views that will make your camera work overtime. The day is flexible: you can opt for a gentle stroll around Dove Lake, famous for its mirror-like surface reflecting the mountain’s rugged peaks, or challenge yourself with a more vigorous hike to Marions Lookout.

The walks are described as easy to moderate, with significant scenery reward for each effort. As one reviewer noted, “the scenery at Cradle Mountain was stunning,” and the diverse trail options mean you can tailor the experience to your fitness level.

Later, the tour heads through Sheffield, the “town of murals,” famous for its outdoor art scene, before arriving in Launceston for an overnight stay, giving you a taste of Tasmania’s charming city life.

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Day 4: The East Coast and the Bay of Fires – White Sands and Indigenous Culture

Day four begins with a drive to the Bay of Fires, renowned for its pristine white beaches and iconic orange-lichen-covered boulders. This stretch of coast is perfect for relaxing walks, beachcombing, or just soaking in the extraordinary scenery. One reviewer loved the opportunity to learn about the Tasmanian Aboriginal culture here, adding a meaningful cultural aspect to the natural beauty.

Next, the tour takes you further along the scenic coast to Bicheno, a charming seaside town famous for its little penguins and vibrant local scene. Guests often mention the peaceful beaches and the chance to spot wildlife, giving the area a genuine, untouched feel.

There's plenty more to explore in Hobart

Day 5: Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay – The Tour’s Grand Finale

The last day kicks off early to beat the crowds at Wineglass Bay, one of Tasmania’s most photographed spots. The lookout provides sweeping views of the curving bay and azure water framed by lush hills. The walk to the lookout is quick, but options are available for more challenging hikes, such as the Mount Amos or Hazards Beach walks, appealing to those craving more adventure.

Travel along the picturesque east coast takes you through towns like Swansea and Orford before returning to Hobart. This final stretch ties the entire trip together, showcasing Tasmania’s coastal beauty and diversity.

What Travelers Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation and Group Size

With a maximum of 24 people, the small group atmosphere fosters camaraderie and relaxed conversations. The transportation is comfortable, and reviewers mention that the journey is well-coordinated, with frequent breaks for sightseeing and comfort. The total travel time includes some long days, but the frequent stops and scenic views help pass the time enjoyably.

Accommodation and Food

Guests can choose between hostel or motel options. Motels offer private rooms with ensuite facilities, perfect for those wanting more privacy, while hostels provide shared dormitory options. Reviewers highlight that accommodations are generally clean and comfortable, offering good value.

Food isn’t included, but the tour allows for self-catering, giving flexibility to suit different budgets and dietary needs. Opportunities to buy local produce and dine at cafes are plentiful, and guides are known for recommending the best local spots.

Activities and Walks

Most walks are classified as easy to moderate, catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Notable examples include the 25-minute walk to Russell Falls and the 2-3 hour Dove Lake Circuit. Reviewers with moderate fitness and good mobility praise the balance of activity and scenery, saying they could customize hikes based on their preference.

Cultural and Natural Highlights

The inclusion of Tasmanian Aboriginal culture at the Bay of Fires enhances the tour’s depth. Many reviews also mention the guides’ storytelling—factual yet engaging—making the places visited more meaningful.

Cost and Value

While the tour isn’t cheap, its value lies in the comprehensive coverage of Tasmania’s main attractions with expert guidance, transportation, and entry fees included. The reviews repeatedly emphasize the quality of guides and the well-planned itinerary, making it a worthwhile investment for those short on time but eager to experience Tasmania’s highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 5-day adventure suits travelers who:

Want to see Tasmania’s top sights without the stress of planning logistics.
Enjoy active outings like short hikes and scenic walks.
Appreciate guided storytelling that adds context to natural landscapes.
Are comfortable spending time on a bus but want frequent, meaningful stops.
Seek good value for a comprehensive, well-organized trip.
Prefer small group experiences for a more personal touch.

It might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or young children under 8, given the active nature and walking involved. Also, if you prefer a slower pace or more time at each stop, this tour could feel a bit rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour fee?
The price covers transportation, accommodation (in either hostel or motel options), a guide, national park entry fees, and pickup/drop-off at selected Hobart locations.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are self-catered. The tour provides daily opportunities to buy food from local cafes, restaurants, or supermarkets, allowing customization for dietary needs and budgets.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
Most walks are easy to moderate, but it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments. Guests should have moderate fitness and good mobility for the best experience.

What kind of accommodation options are available?
Guests can choose between private motels with ensuite bathrooms or shared hostel rooms, depending on preference and budget.

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years due to the active nature and walking involved.

How long are the travel days?
Days can be long, with some travel times up to several hours, but stops are frequent, making the journey more manageable.

What activities are optional?
The Gordon River Cruise and some hikes are optional, giving flexibility to those who prefer a more leisurely day.

How physically demanding are the walks?
Most walks are easy to moderate, like the short stroll to Russell Falls or the Dove Lake circuit. More challenging hikes, like to Marions Lookout or Mount Amos, are optional for experienced hikers.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Tasmania tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances iconic sights, active exploration, and cultural insights. The guides consistently receive praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make each day special. The diverse landscapes—from rainforests to beaches—keep the trip visually stunning and engaging.

While the long days on the bus may not suit everyone, the frequent breaks, scenic stops, and well-organized schedule help keep energy levels high. The accommodation options provide good value, and the flexibility around walks and activities caters to different fitness levels.

This tour is an excellent way to tick off Tasmania’s most celebrated destinations in a short time, especially for travelers eager to learn about the island’s natural beauty and indigenous culture without the hassle of planning every detail.

For solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking a comprehensive, guided experience, this tour offers a memorable snapshot of Tasmania’s best. If you’re after a well-balanced mix of scenery, adventure, and storytelling, this trip might just be the perfect introduction to the island’s wonders.